Radio Control: Scale
OUR FOKKER D. VII build-along is on pause for this month while I finish an Ikon Stinson SR-8 for a friend in South Jersey. I'll show you a photo or two in the next issue. Those following the Fokker project have probably already cut the rib addition modifications I indicated in a previous column. Those who have had some difficulty constructing wing panels with the new undercamber additions added to the noses of the ribs should try positioning the plans so that the spar is at the very edge of the workbench, letting the rib noses overhang the bench. (What problem?) We'll get back on track with the D. VII next month.
Model Aircraft Covering the Easy Method
SOONER OR LATER, every aeromodeler must face the task of covering a model airplane. Many of us find covering difficult, but it doesn't have to be difficult at all. Once you understand the basics, model covering can be quite pleasurable. In fact, it can be one of the most artistically creative steps toward getting your newest model airborne. Most modelers think that the secret to beautiful covering is the quality of shrink, but I'm going to teach you how to stretch before you shrink. Think about it. . . Science 101 says that heat makes most things expand, not shrink. Sure, a heat-shrink covering will draw tight when 200ºF or better is applied to its
Radio Control: Scale
SINCE THIS ISSUE'S DEADLINE was a week ahead of the Radio Control Hobby Trade Association show in Chicago (RCHTA), the coverage will be in the next issue. On the brighter side, there is no shortage of good-time items to show you right now. Manufacturers' News: The first item is a most interesting and long-awaited do-right product for one of aeromodeling's most troublesome tasks: Have you found a solution for the problem of mounting clear plastic windows on the side of a Scale model? Do you really think that edging the window with 1/4-inch striping tape hides the mess? Do you iron clear MonoKote over the window area? This works pretty well on Goldberg Cubs and the like, but it could hardly be called the definitive Scale procedure. Well, Jim Denaro of JDM Products (543 Bedford Street, Concord MA 01742) seems to have come up with a winner:
Radio Control: Scale
THE RADIO CONTROL HOBBY and Trade Association's 1994 Chicago show was filled with Scale activity. There were new kits, excellent models on the static tables, and each exhibitor of Scale airplanes or accessories had something of value to contribute to our discipline. Scale was huge. Walking the show floor could amount to days, if one wanted to take the full impact of everything displayed. In addition to the Scale goodies that were part of the many airplane-related exhibits, you could also take in boat exhibitors, car and truck displays, helicopter kits and accessories, plastic kits, trains and hobby accessories of every size, purpose and description, even gaming, books, and extensive arrays of hand and power hobby tools. If you looked deep enough past the show's steady flow of onlookers, you would have found none other than Neil Young doing his part for the show, sans guitar, talking to train fans at the Lionel display. You bet Chicago was a kick. Have a look . . .
Radio Control: Scale
WHATEVER YOUR AGE, aeromodeling interest, or experience level, I'm here to tell you that Scale modeling is fun. Have others led you to believe that Scale modeling is not for the squeamish? Have you heard that Scale models are difficult to build or fly? Are you under the impression that only the most skilled modelers are able to produce acceptable Scale models? If any of these views are embedded in your thought process, read on. If the idea of building a flying Scale model is new to you or intimidates you for some reason, pay attention. Scale aeromodeling can never be any more or less than what you make of it. There are simple full-scale airplanes and complicated full-scale airplanes, and of course, there are models that behave nicely in the air and those that do not. All you have to do is select an airplane whose style and grace inspires you, and equally important, select one that is suited to your building and flying skills.
